Tanzania Safari Tours to Mahale Mountains National Park. Discovery Journeys
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Exclusive Destinations for Tanzania Safari Tours

Tanzania safari tours are currently among the most demanded wildlife adventures. At 365,756 square kilometers, Tanzania is the second largest country in the East African community. With this size comes the advantage of large wildlife-protected areas, diverse wildlife species, and numbers. There are several world-renowned wildlife safari destinations in Tanzania making the country among the most visited in East Africa.

The country is flocked by many adventure travelers in the peak season from June to September. December and January are also busy travel months for Tanzania wildlife tour destinations like Serengeti National Park. With such tourist numbers travelers interested in exclusivity do not enjoy their Tanzania safari Tours. There are several wildlife destinations in Tanzania where you can still have exclusive Tanzania safari tours. They include the following.

Mahale Mountains

Mahale Mountains National Park in Northwestern Tanzania is an incredible chimpanzee trekking destination. The park is among Tanzania’s most isolated wildlife destinations and is home to chimpanzees and eight other primates. 

Mahale Mountains National Park has over 800 chimpanzees with habituated communities of about 60 individuals that are open to tourism. Just like other chimpanzee trekking destinations, chimpanzee tracking here is done on foot. Tanzania safari tours to the Mahale Mountains are truly exclusive and exceptional. 

The Forested mountainous park is adjacent to Lake Tanganyika where you can have a boat cruise safari. Other safari activities you can engage in while here include forest walks, and birding safaris. 

Mahale Mountains National Park can easily be accessed by air transport. There are scheduled flights to the park area twice a week operated by Safari Air Link. You can also opt for charter at an extra cost.

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is the second largest national park in Tanzania located in the southern part of the country. The park covers a land area of about 7,809 square kilometers of open savanna grasslands and woodland vegetation. Ruaha is one of the best places where you can enjoy private and exclusive Tanzania Safari tours. The park has four of the big five mammals including elephants, buffaloes, lions, and Leopards. Other big safari animals present include giraffes, Hippos, zebras, Kudus, and Roan antelopes among others. Wild dogs, cheetahs, and hyenas are also present in Ruaha though rarely seen.

There are well-developed game drive trails in the park that you follow to see the major wildlife species. Nature walks, and balloon safaris are other adventurous ways of enjoying Tanzania safari tours in Ruaha National Park. Ruaha is located 504 kilometers from Dar es Salaam and it takes about 10 hours to get there by road. You would need a minimum of 3 days to Visit Ruaha with two days for transfers to and from the park. For a better Discovery Journeys adventure here we recommend at least 4 or 5 nights.  

Ruaha National Park largely remains exclusive and private even in the middle of the peak tourist season. The easiest way to access Ruaha is by air transfer though this comes at an extra cost. There are several scheduled and charter flights from Dar es Salaam and from the northern part of Tanzania to Ruaha.

The Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro crater is a large volcanic caldera located in Northern Tanzania. It is believed to have been formed million years ago when a volcanic mountain erupted collapsing on itself. With this, it formed a Long depression and it is currently the largest unfilled Volcanic caldera. The Ngorongoro crater is an attraction in itself and was listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. The crater floor has several landscapes with lakes, Rivers, and Volcanoes.

Ngorongoro has several vegetation types including open savannas and woodland in the highlands. These are home to various wildlife species including elephants, lions, birds, and wildebeest among others. The Ngorongoro crater is an enclosed feature that is naturally exclusive, and game drives on the crater floor are intimate.

Tanzania safari tours to Ngorongoro are highly recommended for those seeking exclusive experiences like honeymooners. A visit here can be supplemented with a safari to Serengeti National Park for the wildebeest migration. The Wildebeest migration passes the Ngorongoro conservation area but at the crater rim from around February to March. This is also the calving period where many births are witnessed. The calving period however attracts many predators that can be seen live in action hunting.  Our 5 Days Tanzania Safari is the most recommended option to explore the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti ecosystems.

Nyerere National Park

Formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is an iconic and exclusive safari destination in Southern Tanzania. The park covers a total land area of 50,000 square kilometers and it is also a World Heritage Site. Nyerere National Park is a true definition of the less traveled paths with diverse wildlife and ecosystems. The Miombo woodlands are some of the unique ecosystems here and are home to major wildlife species.

Notable safari animals you can see here include buffaloes, Elephants, Giraffes, Zebras, and Rhinos among others. This is one of the few destinations in East Africa with the highest population of different wildlife species. Trophy hunting is still done in the park but very much restricted to the southern part. The northern part was set aside for photography safaris and there you get to capture the various wildlife species.

You can engage in several safari activities here including nature walks, balloon safaris, boat trips on the Rufiji River, and game drives among others. Nyerere National Park can be accessed by road, air, and train but air transport is the most effective one. The park’s location in the wild south makes it remote, taking a couple of hours to get there by road. It takes a 5 to 6-hour drive from Dar es Salaam to the nearest entry point of the park. Due to the poor road conditions sometimes the road becomes impassable, especially in the rainy season.

Other Safari Tour Destinations

There are still many more notable exclusive safari destinations where you can enjoy Tanzania Safari tours. At Discovery Journeys, we aim to explore these destinations following customized itineraries depending on one’s preference and convenience. You can check out our safari itineraries to Tanzania’s wild south and other exclusive destinations in East Africa featuring Mountain Gorilla trekking and much more.

You can also join our Kenya safaris to Masai Mara or Amboseli National Park. 

L'hoest Monkey In Nyungwe National Park. Rwanda Wildlife Tours
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Rwanda Wildlife Tours To Nyungwe National Park

Rwanda Wildlife tours to Nyungwe National Park are a must-do.  The park is one of the most exclusive wildlife destinations in Rwanda and East Africa in general. Nyungwe National Park is located in South Western Rwanda about a 6 to 7 hours drive from Kigali Rwanda’s capital city. It protects Rwanda’s largest forest and one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. Nyungwe is home to several wildlife species making it a top destination for Rwanda Wildlife Tours.

Nyungwe National Park covers a land area of 1,019 square Kilometers. It is diverse and it is on this basis that it was recently inscribed as a World Heritage Site. It is also among Rwanda’s largest protected areas. The forested national park is mountainous and consists of Afro-montane forests, Swamps, bamboo, grasslands, and bogs that are all habitats for several wildlife species.

There are 13 primates, over 300 bird species, 85 mammal species, 38 reptiles, 32 amphibians, and over 1060 plant species. On Rwanda wildlife tours to Nyungwe you, therefore, have several activities you can engage in, and they include the following. 

Chimpanzee Trekking Tours

Chimpanzee trekking is the main safari activity done in Nyungwe National Park. There are two main chimpanzee communities here that are habituated and open to tourism. One community is at Uwinka the main park headquarters and the other is at Cyamudongo near Lake Kivu. Chimpanzees share over 98% DNA similar to humans making them man’s closest primates. It is therefore adventurous to take on Rwanda Wildlife tours to Nyungwe to meet these human relatives. 

The chimpanzee Trekking Experience

Nyungwe Chimpanzee trekking starts early morning with a briefing at the park headquarters. To avoid wasting time it is important to book accommodation near the sector or community where you will be tracking. You can however still make it regardless of where you have accommodation. 

Trekking to the chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest takes 2 to 4 hours of hiking in the forest. Here you get to see several wildlife, especially birds and small reptiles. There are usually park rangers who go ahead of time and they communicate with the ranger guides once the chimps have been located. Once you get to them you are only allowed one hour in their presence learning more and taking photos. Later you are brought back to the park headquarters.

Chimpanzees are highly mobile compared to other primates. They tend to move from one place to another sometimes jumping from one tree branch to another. Chimpanzees communicate by making different sounds and calls amongst themselves. Expert ranger guides have trekked these forests for years and can tell the next move by sound and body language.

Colobus monkey and other primate treks

On these primate treks in Nyungwe forest, you will get to see the other 12 primates the park has. They include red-tailed monkeys, Olive baboons, Grey-cheeked mangabey, Silver monkeys, Colobus, and Vervet Monkeys among others. Nyungwe National Park has about 25% of Africa’s primates, and Rwanda Wildlife tours featuring any of them are unmatched.

The best time to start these primate treks is in the early morning but afternoon sessions can work as well.

Night Nature Walks

Nyungwe National Park has several nocturnal animals that can be explored on a night nature walk. The night is the best time to listen to the sounds and even the smallest species including crickets. Night nature walks in Nyungwe start at 7:00 pm and end at 9:00 pm.  In the two hours of hiking, you enjoy the Jungle and get to feel the real African wilderness.

Day Nature Walks

Several well-developed trails in the Nyungwe forest are hiked during the day. A number of these take 2 to 3 hours or more depending on one’s interest. The canopy walk is among the most spectacular as you hike East Africa’s major canopy walkway. The Canopy hangs several meters in the sky. On this adventurous walk, you are able to see the wildlife species that prefer staying in the top canopy layers. You also enjoy the great scenic views of the great Albertine Rift and some of the nearby Rift Valley lakes.

There is also a guided nature walk to the waterfalls in the middle of the forest. Here you mainly enjoy the scenery from the forest and the waterfalls.

Birding Wildlife Tours

Nyungwe National Park is Rwanda’s most Important Birding Area and the best birding safari destination in the country. The park is home to several Albertine Rift endemics and many species restricted to the central African forests.

Notable birds in the Nyungwe forest include the Rwenzori Nightjar, the Great Blue Turaco, Rwenzori Turaco, the Regal sunbird, the Kivu-Ground Thrush, and Congo the bay Owlet among others. Birding trips to Nyungwe are among the most important Rwanda Wildlife tours to be part of while in Nyungwe.

The best time for birding safaris in Nyungwe is from March to May. This is because birding in Nyungwe depends on calls and these months are when birds are more vocal. Migratory birds are also present in the park from November to May giving you a chance to see several species. 

Other Rwanda Wildlife Tours

Rwanda offers other incredible wildlife experiences. These include primate treks to the mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. You can also be part of the big five safari experiences in Akagera National Park. Akagera has all the most desired safari animals including both black and white rhinos.

All Rwanda Wildlife tour destinations have several bird species and are ideal for birding tours. We customize itineraries to all these depending on your preference and convenience. To have the best of Rwanda we recommend a 5 or 7-day Rwanda wildlife safari. The 10-day Rwanda Safari option is also great featuring the 3 National Parks in Rwanda. Contact Us now to start planning for your next Rwanda wildlife tours.

Baby Lowland Gorilla in Kahuzi Biega National Park. Discovery Journeys. 5 Days Lowland gorilla habituation Tour
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Lowland Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Kahuzi Biega National Park

Lowland gorilla trekking safaris are exclusive to Kahuzi Biega National Park. Eastern lowland gorillas are part of the great ape family and are the biggest of all the four gorilla subspecies. They are endemic to Kahuzi Biega National Park meaning it is the only place you can enjoy lowland gorilla trekking safaris.

Kahuzi Biega National Park is located in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in the Southern Kivu province. The park was gazetted in 1970 and is home eastern lowland gorillas, golden monkeys many other wildlife species. It is because of this diversity that the park is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. 

Lowland gorilla trekking safaris are the main activity done in the park for an encounter with the rare primates. 

About Eastern lowland Gorillas

Eastern lowland gorillas live in families that are headed by a dominant male called Silverback. To get and sustain that position, they fight and challenge any male contenders. Eastern lowland gorillas also for territories when they encounter another gorilla family.

The eastern lowland gorilla diet comprises plant vegetation and shoots. Lowland gorillas rarely drink water as the plant vegetation is covered with dew given the temperature of the place. There are currently 14 lowland gorilla families in Kahuzi Biega National Park but only two are open to tourism. The two families are Chimanuka and Bonanne with 10 and 30 individual gorillas respectively.

Only 8 individuals are allowed to trek to each gorilla family a day staying in their presence for an hour. 

The Trekking Experience

You are expected to report to the park headquarters for a briefing about the lowland gorilla trekking safari. Here you are given guidelines including rules and regulations while in the park and in the presence of the gorillas.

The two lowland gorilla trekking experiences in Kahuzi Biega include the normal trek and lowland gorilla habituation experience. On the normal lowland gorilla trek you hike for about 1 to 2 hours and once you meet the gorillas are allowed to stay in their presence for one hour.

You are required to keep at least 7 meters away from the lowland gorillas. This is aimed at reducing contact or threatening the territorial integrity of the gorillas as they can easily feel threatened and charge at you. Gorillas can also easily contract communicable illness from humans so the distance helps to manage these.

The Eastern lowland gorilla habituation experience is more adventurous as it gives you up to 4 hours in their presence. This is ideal for primatologists who seek to learn more about primates. It is also recommended for photographers who want to capture more details about these primates.

Best time for Lowland Gorilla Trekking safaris

The dry months from June to September and from December to February are the best times for lowland gorilla trekking safaris. With minimal rainfall disturbances, it Is easy to move through the park trails. Wildlife Photography is also great in the dry season with the natural lighting and no rainfall interference in the process.

You can still enjoy the lowland gorilla trekking safaris during the wet months.  The overall weather condition of the park is wet and rainfall is unpredictable even in the dry season. It is therefore recommended to pack appropriately even in the dry season.

Accommodation options

Bukavu has the best accommodation options to base from when going for lowland gorilla trekking safaris. These range from budget to deluxe and have incredible views of Lake Kivu. They include Orchid’s Safari Hotel Club, Panorama Hotel, and Hotel Elizabeth among others.

It takes about an hour to drive from Bukavu to Kahuzi Biega National Park. The Democratic Republic of Congo is generally less explored and has a lot to offer. It is a primate trekking destination giant with the major primate species and Primate Discovery Journeys and adventures to the country are most recommended.

You would need at least 3 days to visit Kahuzi Biega National Park for lowland gorillas. In case you have more time you can explore more destinations in the area including Ijwi Island and Lwiro Sanctuary. 

We have curated several Congo safari itineraries to different destinations in the country and other less-explored destinations in East Africa. Follow us for more of these and updates from your favorite wild places.

Other Gorilla Treks

Rwanda and Uganda offer other opportunities for gorilla trekking. These differ from Kahuzi Biega National Park’s lowland gorillas and are home to Mountain Gorillas. Mountain gorillas in Rwanda live in Volcanoes National Park. The park together with Mgahinga and Virunga National Parks are part of the Virunga conservation area.

Virunga National Park is however currently closed because of insecurity in the park area. Volcanoes and Mgahinga Gorilla Parks on the other hand are open and you can visit them for Mountain Gorilla Tours. They can be accessed by both road and air transport. Air transport to the parks is by scheduled or charter flights from the major airports of the respective countries.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda is the gorilla trekking destination. This has the highest mountain gorilla population with four gorilla trekking sectors. For a better understanding of Eastern lowland and mountain gorillas, we recommend a gorilla trekking safari adventure featuring the 2 species. This can start with either of the destinations depending on your schedule. Contact Us to start planning your ultimate gorilla safari adventure. You can also visit our other featured destinations including Masai Mara in Kenya. 

Kenya Wildlife safari with Mountain Kilimanjaro in the Background
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Must Visit Kenya Wildlife Safari Destinations

Kenya wildlife destinations top the bucket lists of many adventurous travelers. Kenya is located in East Africa bordering the Indian Ocean and Somalia in the East, Uganda in the west, South Sudan in the North West, and Tanzania in the south. The country is East Africa’s biggest economy and is also East Africa’s leading wildlife safari destination.

Kenya has over 30 national parks and reserves including marine wildlife national parks. These are home to several wildlife species and are key attractions to wildlife enthusiasts. Kenya Wildlife Safari destinations also have a rich cultural and historical background. This is thanks to the diverse culture and heritage of the people of Kenya. A combination of these makes Kenya wildlife safari experiences exceptional. It is no wonder many people keep traveling to the country yearly to discover more.

At Discovery Journeys, we customize safari adventures featuring exclusive destinations where one can have unforgettable experiences. Below are the top five Kenya Wildlife Safari destinations you Must visit while on a Kenya Safari.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara is the most famous Kenya wildlife safari destination. The reserve has savanna’s most desired wildlife species including the big five mammals, the big cats, and other safari specials. Notable safari animals you can spot on a Kenyan safari include giraffes, antelope species, elephants, and birds among others.

The reserve is most famous for its wildebeest migration. This is an annual mass movement of wildebeest, zebras, and Thompson gazelles from Serengeti National Park to Masai Mara in search of fresh pasture. It transcends from one month to another on a journey of life and death.

The wildebeest migration breeds life as during the calving period over 6,00 calves are born a day. The calving period is usually between February and March. Calves are primary targets of the deadly predators seeking survival. The calving period happens in Tanzania from November to March. It is from here the wildebeests continue on their quest spreading to the western part and eventually crossing over the Mara River to Masai Mara. The wildebeest cross the Mara River into Masai Mara in mid-June depending on the movement of the herds.

Mara River Crossings

The Mara River crossings are the most spectacular event on the wildebeest migration journey. The calves would have grown by now and those that survive the big cats now face the Nile crocodile challenge. Mara River has some of the deadliest crocodiles that eagerly await the migrating herds.

Masai Mara also has several predators and has one of the highest lion populations ranging from 800 to 900. These depend on the herbivores the Mara ecosystem has and the migration numbers allow them to hunt.

Other Masai Mara Safaris

On Kenya Wildlife Safari expeditions to Masai Mara, you enjoy game drives, nature walks, and balloon safaris.  All these safari adventures feature the wildebeest migration and other top wildlife attractions the reserve has.

The best time to Visit Masai Mara is from June to October for better wildlife viewing opportunities. This doubles as a peak tourist season and several safari lodges get fully booked.  It is therefore important to make your bookings in advance to avoid missing out.

Some of our top Discovery Journeys adventures to Masai Mara include an 8-day Safari. This is extensive and features Masai Mara and other Kenya wildlife safari destinations. The 4-day Masai Mara tour is also ideal for those with limited time but would love to explore the reserve.

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is among Kenya’s underrated safari destinations. The park is most famous for its herds of elephants and it is the best place to see the world’s largest land mammals. Amboseli offers better African elephant safari experiences than Masai Mara.

Beyond the elephants, Amboseli National Park has major savanna big mammals including buffaloes, lions, leopards, giraffes, and over 600 bird species. It has a reasonable number of flamingos and currently offers better chances of flamingo viewing than Lake Nakuru. 

Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain is another iconic attraction to Amboseli National Park. The mountain is situated in Tanzania but can best be seen in Amboseli National Park. The cloudy and snow-capped mountain offers impressive scenic views. What makes Kenya wildlife safari experiences in Amboseli unique is viewing wildlife with a view of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Safari Activities in Amboseli

Game drives are the most enjoyable safari activities you can engage in here. The best time for game drives in this land of giants is early morning to catch up with the early risers. This is also when there are better chances of clearly seeing Mount Kilimanjaro. You can also explore the park on guided nature walks led by the local Masai people. Masai community visits are also exceptional as you get to know about the people’s ways of life.

Other activities you can engage in here include birding and scenic photography safaris among others. Amboseli is a busy Kenya wildlife safari destination and in case you plan to visit in the peak season from June to September ensure to book in advance.

Rift Valley Lakes

The eastern arm of the Great Rift Valley passes through Kenya and has iconic relief features including lakes. These are attractions in their own right but also home to several wildlife species, especially birds. Notable Rift Valley lakes in Kenya include Lake Nakuru, Lake Elementaita, Lake Turkana, and Lake Naivasha among others.

These lakes are Key birding safari destinations with colorful birds including flamingos, great white pelicans, grey-crowned cranes, black-winged lapwings, and white-headed vultures among others. Kenya Birding Discovery Journeys are ideal from November to May. This is a breeding season for birds and a time when they are in full plumage. It is also a time when migratory birds from as far as Europe are in the area.

Kenya Rift Valley lake areas are also home to other big game like hippos, crocodiles, and major grazers. They often go down the lake shores in the dry seasons to get drinking water. Kenya wildlife safari adventures in the Rift Valley lake systems are truly remarkable and adventurous. You can enjoy boat cruises for relaxed wildlife viewing and photography safaris.

Samburu National Reserve.

Samburu National Reserve is another unique must-visit Kenya Wildlife destination. The reserve has the most uniquely diverse wildlife species of all wildlife destinations in Kenya. Several wildlife species in Samburu do not occur in other destinations in Kenya. Some of the safari specials here include the Grevy Zebras, gerenuk, Somali ostriches, Beisa Oryx, and reticulated giraffes. 

The reserve has over 450 bird species thus also making it a great Kenya birding safari destination. Apart from the Somali Ostriches, other impressive birds there include the Yellow Billed hornbills, Marabou storks, and Sunbirds among others.

Ewaso Ngiro, northern Kenya’s biggest River is another iconic attraction in Samburu National Reserve. This is the reserve’s main water supply where animals gather to take water on a hot day. 

A community visit to the Samburu people is an added advantage that gives you an insight into the local people’s culture. Several safari activities are guided by the natives who are knowledgeable about the area. Samburu land is among the less traveled paths in Kenya and wildlife safaris and cultural experiences here are exclusive.

Turkana Land

This beautiful land is located in the northwest of Kenya. It is home to the Turkana people who are Nilotic of origin. The Turkana area is semi-arid and has Lake Turkana as the main water body. It is inhabited by the Turkana people who are semi-nomadic pastoralists. They keep cattle, and camels and do a bit of handcraft work, especially the women. Despite being near the lake, some sections of the Turkana tribe consider eating fish a taboo and few of them engage in fishing activities.

Turkana land has several wildlife attractions and is a true African wilderness. The region has more rare wildlife species that do not occur in many Kenya safari destinations. It is often described as a laboratory for the study of plants and animal species because of the area’s wildlife diversity and uniqueness.

The three national parks in Turkana include Sibiloi National Park, the South, and Central Island National Parks. These cover an estimated land area of about 161,485 hectares. With this vast size comes an added advantage of wildlife diversity and numbers.  Turkana land is also is a major breeding ground for Nile Crocodiles, Snakes, and hippos among others.

The exclusivity of the area is a game changer and it makes it a leading Kenya Wildlife safari destination to explore.

Uganda Safari Adventures to Kidepo Valley National Park
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Uganda Safari Adventures to Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park is an exclusive destination where you can enjoy Uganda Safari Adventures of the true African Wilderness. The park is located in the Karamoja region in the North Eastern Part of Uganda. Kidepo Valley National Park covers a land area of 1,442 square kilometers of mainly open savanna vegetation.

The park’s highest point is Mount Morungole at 2,750 meters above sea level. Kidepo was first established as a game reserve in 1958 when the native tribes were evicted to protect the reserve’s ecosystem from poaching and human encroachment. It was eventually elevated to a national park status in 1926

The Karamoja region is semi-desert and equally, Kidepo Valley National Park is a dry area. The only place in the park with a permanent water supply is the Narus Valley. Several animals gather there, especially in the severe dry season to take water. There are two main Rivers here the Kidepo River and the Narus River. These also dry out in the dry season leaving very few oases. 

Wildlife in Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo has over 77 mammals including four of the big five mammals that are Elephants, lions, buffaloes and leopards. The park has the highest buffalo population in Uganda and it is estimated at around 1000 individuals. Other notable wildlife species here include Zebras that in the whole country are only here and in Lake Mburo National park. There are also giraffes, cheetahs, lesser Kuddus, caracal among others.

The park is also home to over 470 bird species with 60 of the birds endemic to the area and can therefore not be found in any other place in Uganda except here. Some of the notable birds here include ostriches, pygmy falcons, fox Kestrel, Golden Pipit, and Karamoja Apalis among others.

Safari Activities in Kidepo Valley National Park

Uganda Safari adventures to Kidepo Valley National Park are among the most rewarding and exclusive safaris. The park’s location makes it the most isolated safari destination in Uganda. It is located about 560 kilometers from Kampala Uganda’s capital city and it takes about a 9 to 10 hours drive to get there. With this, Kidepo Valley National Park is not frequented a lot. All the Uganda safari adventures here are therefore very intimate and exclusive.

Game Drives

Just like many other wildlife safari destinations, game drives are the most common activities done in Kidepo Valley National Park. Game drives here are however rewarding as you explore seeing the different bird species the park has. Uganda has 10 national parks each offering a unique experience but Uganda Safari Adventures to Kidepo are more intimate. With few people visiting the park, the ecosystem here is intact and you enjoy your safaris. Game drives are done in the Kidepo and Narus areas. The Narus Valley is best to explore in the dry season as the park’s major wildlife gathers here for water.

The best time to enjoy game drives here is early mornings and late evenings. In about 3 hours you would have seen the major wildlife species in the park. To ensure more chances of wildlife viewing, it is better to hire a national park ranger as they know best the different trails in the park. On evening game drives you can enjoy the sunset and sundowners that are organized by the lodges.

Community Visits

Kidepo Valley National Park is neighbored by the Karamojong people who are Nilotic of origin. They are pastoralists and are among the few tribes in Uganda that are still authentically attached to their African roots. They live in extended families in homesteads of small just called Manyattas. On a community visit to the Karamojong, you get to know more about the local peoples’ ways of life. They also perform traditional dances that you can also take part in.

Nature walks

You can also enjoy guided nature walks in Kidepo Valley National Park. This is ideal for up-close wildlife experiences and enables you to get close to nature. On these nature walks you get to see several small wildlife species like reptiles that you are unable to see while on game drives. There is a viewpoint near Apoka where you can enjoy sightseeing overlooking the endless plains of Kidepo.

Early morning and late evenings are the best times to enjoy guided nature walks. The park rangers are well knowledgeable about the wildlife and will share the necessary information you need to know. You can make arrangements with your lodge to have bush breakfast or sundowner at the end of the nature walk.

Birding Safaris

Kidepo Valley National Park is a great birding destination. The bird species the park has, especially the endemics, make it among the top birding safari parks in Uganda. You can have birding game drives or guided birding walks. To fully explore the birds the park has, birding game drives are the best for a bigger area coverage.

Parks' Accessibility

The park can be accessed by road and air transport. By road, it takes a full day (9 to 10 hours drive) to get there. This involves en-route stopovers for photography and sightseeing at major places of interest. It also involves a lunch break in Gulu city in northern Uganda. When going by road it is better to spend at least 3 nights in the park on Discovery Uganda Safari adventures. This gives one enough time to rest and explore before returning to Kampala or other destinations of interest depending on schedule.

When coming from other destinations like Murchison Falls National Park, it would one about a 6-hour drive to get to Kidepo. You can also visit the park from the Pian Upe Game reserve area and it would take about a 6 to 7 hours drive to get to Kidepo. This route takes you through Moroto in the Uganda countryside where you see Karamojong homesteads and can have a stopover at a local market in case it is market day.

Kidepo Valley National Park has an airstrip at Apoka with scheduled flights from Entebbe International Airport. The flight option is better as it saves time.  Apoka Airstrip is located in the middle of the park, you start your adventures and game drives the moment you land and you drive to the lodge.

Accommodation

The two accommodation options in the middle of the park are Apoka Safari Lodge and the Uganda Wildlife Authority Bandas. Apoka Safari Lodge is an all-inclusive safari lodge and offers all-around uninterrupted views of the park. It has a water point where sometimes animals including elephants gather to take water and freshen up.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority Bandas are budget and the only budget options in the park. Other lodges include Adere Safari Lodge, and Kidepo Savanna Lodge right outside at the edge of the park. They also overlook the open savanna grasslands and while here you enjoy the endless views.

Safaris in Kidepo can be enjoyed any time of the year however the dry season is better as in the wet season some roads become impassable. Book our Discovery Journeys adventures to Kidepo for exclusive and true African safaris.

Wildebeest Migration Safari in Serengeti National Park. Wildlife Safari Journeys. 5 Days Tanzania Safari
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The Wildlife Safari Journeys of Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is a world-class destination for wildlife Safari journeys. It is located in Northern Tanzania and is among East Africa’s most visited national parks. The park was established in 1951 and covers a land area of 14,763 square kilometers. Serengeti National Park is among the most diverse ecosystems in East Africa. It is because of this diversity that the park was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Serengeti is divided into three regions that include the Serengeti Plains, the western corridor, and northern Serengeti. The Serengeti plains region is covered with open savanna grasslands. It also has several kopjes that the predators take advantage of to spot their prey.

Western Serengeti is covered by a Riverine Forest. The area has two main Rivers, Mbalageti and Grumeti. These Rivers especially Grumeti, are a great obstacle to the wildebeest as the deadly Nile crocodiles wait to take down their prey. The Mbalageti River is a seasonal one and often dries up in the dry season. Northern Serengeti is mainly covered with woodlands and hills. This northern part stretches to the Tanzania and Kenyan border. These open plains are the heart of wildlife safari journeys in Tanzania. 

Wildlife In Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is famous for the different wildlife species it has. There are over one million wildebeests that roam the open plains of Serengeti. Wildebeests are joined by over 200,000 zebras and many other antelopes including Thompson gazelles, and the topi. This wildebeest migration is the primary activity done on wildlife safari journeys in Serengeti. 

The Park is a lion conservation unit and has the highest lion population in Africa. It is a guarantee to see lions on game drives in Serengeti. All the other big cats namely leopards and cheetahs are also present here and occur in large numbers. 

Other notable safari animals in the park include hyenas buffaloes, giraffes, elephants, and Hippos among others. The park is also a birders paradise with over 500 bird species. The Serengeti and Mara ecosystem is among Africa’s important endemic bird areas. Some of the birds you can see on wildlife safari journeys in Serengeti include the Kori bustard, secretary bird, and silver bird among others.

Wildlife Safari Activities in Serengeti

Game drives are the commonly done safari activities in Serengeti National Park. They feature the wildebeest migration, big cats, Big Five mammals, and overall wildlife species. The wildebeest migration reaches the different sectors of Serengeti at different months of the year. It is important to know the part of Serengeti where the herds are in a particular month of the year before making a booking.

Wildebeest herds are often in northern Serengeti from mid-September. They slowly sweep through the south over the Ngorongoro crater and Ndutu towards the end and beginning of the year. The best time to visit northern Serengeti for the wildebeest migration is from August to October. November ushers in the rains and the herds would have moved south spreading and enjoying the fresh pastures. As the year ends, the calving period begins and several calves are born around the Ngorongoro and Ndutu areas. All these phenomena occur over a given period transitioning from one month to another.

Early morning game drives offer the best animal viewing opportunities as you catch up with the early risers. There are several nocturnal animals and the major predators are nocturnal. They are most active in the night or early mornings before sunrise. Getting up for an early morning game drive enables you to see a number of these returning from hunting. Evening and night game drives are also great and very adventurous.

Wildebeest River Crossings

Wildebeest River crossings of Grumeti in Serengeti are not as spectacular as those of the Mara River. They are still impressive to watch as the wildebeests overcome their first River obstacle. The other opportunity to watch the River crossings to Serengeti is in the northern part as the herds cross the Mara River once again on their way back.

Birding Wildlife Safari Journeys

With the bird species diversity in the park, Birding safari experiences here are unforgettable.  To fully explore bird life, it is better to dedicate a game drive to birding.  You can also start early in the morning or in the evening when it is not hot.

The Riverine forested areas in the western corridor of the park are also great birding areas. You are also able to see different bird species in the sectors of Serengeti depending on the vegetation type. Overall wildlife safari birding Journeys here can be done any time of the year.

Nature walks

You can explore the vast Serengeti Ecosystem on foot. There are great opportunities for wildlife viewing on guided nature walks as you get more intimate with the ecosystem. Because the park is an open wild place, guided nature is guarded by armed rangers. They can fire in space in case of any animal scare. The nature trails that are followed are generally safe for sundowners, and bush breakfasts.

Other activities include balloon safaris and many tailor-made activities by lodges and camps depending on one’s preference.

We have customized Serengeti itineraries you can book for the best of wildlife safari journeys in Serengeti. Our 9-day Safari features Tarangire and Ngorongoro but gives you enough time in Serengeti. The 4 and 7-day Safari options are for those with limited time in Tanzania. The 12 and 14-day safari options are for those who would like to add beach holidays as well. Contact us now to start planning your wildlife safari journeys.

Rwanda Safaris in Volcanoes National Park
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Rwanda Safaris to Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda safaris to Volcanoes National Park have over the years gained popularity. They are currently among the most desired safaris and feature on the top bucket list of many travelers. Rwanda is popularly known as the land of a thousand hills because of its hilly landscapes. The country is also a great primate trekking destination home to mountain gorillas and more. Despite the country’s small size, Rwanda safaris are rewarding. Rwanda is diverse with potential safari destinations that have not yet been explored.

When anyone talks about Rwanda Safaris, Volcanoes National Park is the first Key destination that pops up. The park is located in the northwestern part of the country about a 3-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city. Volcanoes National Park is part of the great Virunga conservation area. This encompasses the Virunga mountains along the Rwanda, Uganda, and Democratic Republic of Congo border.

The Virunga conservation area has 3 main national parks including Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mgahinga Gorilla Park in Uganda. These are homes to the endangered mountain gorillas that are Key attractions to the area. Rwanda Safaris to Volcanoes National Park mainly focuses on mountain gorillas but there is a lot more that the park offers. Let us look at the main safari adventures that one can engage in on Rwanda Safaris to Volcanoes National Park.

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris 

Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris top the list of the adventures to be part of when in the park. The Virunga conservation has about 600 mountain gorillas and Volcanoes National Park has the highest of the 3 national parks. It has 20 gorilla families 12 of which are open for tourism. These families are evenly distributed in the park and can be trekked to follow the different trails.

Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park takes 2 to 4 hours depending on the movement of the mountain gorillas. Gorilla families like Susa and Sabyinyo require more hours of hiking as gorilla move in a long range. When booking your gorilla trekking adventure it is important to communicate your physical capabilities to ensure you are allocated a gorilla group that can be got to after relatively short times of hiking. Those who are physically fit can take on long hiking adventures for more wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Our tailor-made Rwanda safaris to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking start from 1 Day and more. There is a chance of booking an exclusive gorilla trek at extra cost. You can also do a double gorilla trek tracking gorillas two times following two different gorilla families. The ideal tour to the gorillas is a 3-day Rwanda gorilla tour that enables you to track golden monkeys as well. Book your Rwanda Safaris featuring gorilla trekking for the ultimate primate trekking adventures.

Dian Fossey Hiking Experiences 

Dian Fossey was an American primatologist who dedicated her life to wildlife, especially mountain gorilla conservation. She is a key figure who paved the way for most conservation efforts towards mountain gorillas in the Virunga mountains. Dian started her research work in 1967 founding the Karisoke Centre where she was based to explore the Virungas and study more about mountain gorillas.

It is from her great research work that the world got to know about the mountain gorillas. She was murdered in 1985 and was buried near her favorite gorilla digit. While on Rwanda safaris in the park, you can hike to the Dian Fossey tomb and learn about her conservation works.

The Dian Fossey hiking trail has several wildlife species including birds and primates that you can spot as you trek. The whole hiking experience is enjoyable because of the great scenery in the mountains. It takes about 6 hours to complete the Dian Fossey hike but it requires a bit of physical fitness because it is a bit strenuous to Hike. When on a 4-day tour add the Dian Fossey to fully understand the conservation journey the park has been through.

Golden Monkey Trekking safaris

Golden monkeys, just like their names, are covered with golden fur. They are endemic to Virunga mountains and Volcanoes National Park is among the best places to see them. Golden monkeys stay in the light bamboo forests and their hike takes about 2 to 3 hours.

The golden monkey hike also enables one to see several other wildlife species including birds. Golden monkeys are however a highlight of this hike and meeting them in the wild is very rewarding. You are allowed to stay up to an hour in the presence of the golden monkeys learning more about them.

Virunga Mountains Hiking 

Two of the Virunga mountains in Volcanoes National Park are hiked. Mount Karisimbi hike takes two 2 days with climbers spending a night on the mountain. This hike is adventurous and there you get to see several wildlife species including birds. The hike offers great scenic views of other Virunga mountains and the surrounding lowland areas.

Mount Bisoke is the other mountain that is hiked in Volcanoes National Park. The mountain has a crater lake on its summit and sometimes gorillas hang around the lake. It is sometimes rare to see mountain gorillas if you booked for these mountain hikes.  There are different trails that the ranger guides follow for the hikes and gorilla trekking. You can have Rwanda Safaris to Volcanoes National Park featuring gorilla trekking, golden monkeys, and one of the mountain hikes.

As we head into the peak tourist season, the gorilla permits are slowly getting fully booked. This is the time to book your Discovery Journeys adventure to Rwanda. The peak season stretches from June to September and it also doubles as a dry season. During this time hiking, trekking, and overall wildlife viewing and photography are great.

Tchegera Island. Republic of Congo Safaris and gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park
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Democratic Republic of Congo Safaris

Democratic Republic of Congo Safaris are among the top bucket list adventures for several wildlife enthusiasts.  DR Congo is among the best Mountain Gorilla trekking and other safari adventure activities. The country even though faced with several internal security issues, is still by far the most gifted and diverse destination.

DR Congo’s size gives it an added advantage in wildlife numbers. The country does not have Savanna wildlife events like the great wildebeest migration by several Congo safaris you can be a part of.

At Discovery Journeys we take you on adventures and exploration journeys to many off-beaten paths like the Congo.  Let us look at the leading Democratic Republic Of Congo safaris and exclusive experiences.

Virunga Gorilla Trekking safaris 

The famous Virunga mountains along Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo Border stretch to Virunga National Park. This has 6 of the eight Virunga mountains with Mount Karisimbi the Highest of all. Mount Bisoke stands at an elevation of 3,711 meters above sea level and is shared with Rwanda.

Mount Sabyinyo stands at 3,674 meters above sea level shared with Rwanda and Uganda. Other mountains (Mount Mikeno, Mount Nyiragongo, and Mount Nyamuragira) are in Congo and form the foundation of the Democratic Republic of Congo Safaris. 

These Virunga mountains are home to several wildlife species including the rare and endangered mountain gorillas. Virunga National Park is home to ten habituated mountain gorilla families that are open to tourism. Mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga is  exclusive and enjoyable. The park is not as crowded are the other mountain gorilla national parks in Rwanda and Uganda.

The Mountain Gorilla Trekking Experience

One is expected at the park headquarters by 7:00 am for a briefing about the gorilla trekking regulations. After this, you are guided by the park ranger guides to the forested mountains where you meet the mountain gorillas.

Just like in Volcanoes National Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, only 8 tourists are allowed to track mountain gorillas. You are also only given an hour in the presence of the mountain gorillas keeping a distance of about 7 meters.

Mountain gorilla trekking safaris in Virunga National Park are however currently on hold because of the insecurity in the area. Several rangers in Virunga National Park have lost lives trying to fight for the park’s wildlife. Some rangers still monitor the park but with high caution. Once the park management is sure that it is safe that is when tourism activities will be open again.

Eastern Lowland Gorilla Experiences 

The forested mountains of Kahuzi and Biega in the southern Kivu province are home to the eastern lowland gorillas. These just like their counterpart mountain gorillas also live in families led by a dominant male called Silverback. Eastern lowland gorillas are vegetarian and entirely depend on plant vegetation. They are however bigger than the mountain gorillas and are the largest of the four gorilla subspecies.

Democratic Republic of Congo Safaris to Kahuzi Biega National Park for lowland gorilla trekking are exclusive. Eastern lowland gorillas are endemic to Kahuzi Biega. This means it is the only place where you can see them in the wild. Lowland gorilla trekking experiences here are intimate and uninterrupted.

There is also a limit to the number of people trekking to the gorillas and the time spent with them. The lowland gorilla habituation experience is more rewarding as it allows you more time with the gorillas. In this experience, you follow the eastern lowland gorillas with the park rangers as you monitor how they go by their routine. The lowland habituation experience gives you up to 4 hours in the presence of the lowland gorillas. This is ideal for primatologists and even photographers who want to capture more about these amazing primates.

Birding Safaris 

The forested mountains of Kahuzi Biega and the Virunga mountains are also home to several bird species. These also include Congo forests and Albertine Rift Valley endemics. Several bird species in Congo do not occur in any other place in East Africa. This makes Congo safaris and birding Discovery Journeys some of the most remarkable.

Virunga National Park has over 706 bird species which is three times more than the bird species in the UK. Some of the notable birds include Rwenzori Turaco, Rwenzori Bantis, Olive Sunbird, and black bishop among others.

Kahuzi Biega National Park has over 350 bird species including Hornbills, Turacos, Sunbirds, and others. Congo birding safaris are therefore a must-do if you are an avid birder.

Tchegera Island excursions 

Tchegera Island is a small island less than 2 kilometers. It has a crescent shape that is a top of the crater rim of an extinct Volcano. 

The island’s shape makes it a natural harbor with calm waters favoring several wildlife species including fish and crab. Tchegera Island is also covered with plant vegetation that is home to several birds. 
Some of the main activities on Congo Safaris featuring Tchegera Island include Kayaking, snorkeling, birding, and nature walks among others.

Tchegera island is fortunately several meters away from the Virunga National Park area has insecurity issues and is open for tourism. You can have a tailor-made Discovery Journey from Tchegera Island and then continue south to Kahuzi Biega for an adventure with the lowland gorillas. 

Lwiro Sanctuary Primate expeditions

Lwiro Sanctuary is a rehabilitation center for orphaned primates. It was initially primarily set up to help chimpanzees but it has many other primates that are rescued from poachers. The sanctuary has over 112 chimpanzees, 16 monkey species, and other species that are often hunted and captured for trade. At Lwiro all these are taken great care of and a tour here also offers great primate experiences. 

The sanctuary is also located in Southern Kivu near Kahuzi Biega National Park and can be visited after lowland gorilla trekking and habituation experiences.

Join Discovery Journeys off beaten paths Congo safaris for more fun and discovery. 

Masai Mara Balloon Safari. Discovery Journeys
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

The Best of Masai Mara Safari Adventures

Masai Mara safari adventures feature the best of Masai Mara National Reserve one of East Africa’s leading wildlife safari destinations. The reserve is located in southwestern Kenya covering a land area of 1510 square kilometers.

Masai Mara National Reserve is comprises the Mara Triangle and several conservancies that are mainly private. They include Mara North Conservancy, Maji Moto Conservancy, Lemek Conservancy, Ol Chorro Oirowua Conservancy, Naikara Conservancy, Mara Naboisho Conservancy, and Olare Motorogi Conservancy.

Masai Mara is adjacent to Tanzania’s Serengeti and together they form an ecosystem where the wildebeest migration happens. The Masai Mara ecosystem alone is great with diverse wildlife species and a rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people. These make Masai Mara safari adventures exceptional for savanna wildlife and cultural experiences.

The Maasai People

The Maasai people are Nilotic of origin and are predominantly pastoralists just like many other Nilotic tribes. They traditionally worship a god called Engai and the lion is sacred to them as they see it as a totem. Masai are guardians of the ecosystem and only kill Lions when there is a ritual for rights of passage. The Maasai culture is unique in dressing as men and women wear beautiful custom dresses and wrappers. The Maasai women complement these with ornaments and jewelry they locally make.

Several people also make body piercings and dots on their faces that they believe are a sign of beauty.

Some Maasai people still practice their traditional ancestral culture much as a reasonable number has changed because of modernization. At the moment authentic Maasai experience can be enjoyed in the countryside including the Masai Mara National Reserve area.

Wildlife in Masai 

Masai Mara National Reserve is home to over 95 mammals. These include the big five mammals that are elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, and Rhinos. Savanna’s major big cats are also present in the reserve including cheetahs. Masai Mara has one of the highest lion concentrations making it among the best places in East Africa to see lions.

The Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara ecosystems are diverse ideal for classic savanna wildlife experiences. Lions and other big cats thrive on the abundance of prey that include several antelope species and major grazers in the ecosystem. On Masai Mara safari adventures you can easily spot any of these big cats and big Five Mammals.  

Masai Mara is home to wildebeests whose population is estimated at over 1 million individuals. These move over the Serengeti and Masai Mara ecosystems annually looking for fresh pastures in one of the planet’s mass animal movements. The great wildebeest migration is the most anticipated wildlife activity and involves zebras, Thompson gazelles, and Topi among others. 

Other notable wildlife safari species in Masai Mara include giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs, and wild dogs though these are rarely seen. The reserve is also a birders haven with over 500 bird species 57 of which are raptors.

Safari Adventures In Masai Mara

Game Drives

Masai Mara National Reserve can be best explored while on game drives on the different trails that the reserve has. Early morning game drives are ideal for catching up with the early risers including the big cats. There are also several nocturnal animals that you can catch up with as they return from hunting.

Overall wildlife viewing is great in the morning as the animals get ready tp face their day. These game drives take about 3 to 4 hours depending on one’s interest. For those on photography safaris who would like to capture the rising African sunrise over the horizon, morning game drives are great.

The famous wildebeest migration safaris are also primarily enjoyed while on game drives. Luckily, the migration herds are often in Masai Mara from June to September which also doubles as dry season. Here game drives are easily done following the wildebeest migration with minimal rain fall disturbances.

For more chances of wildlife viewing then evening game drives are very ideal. As the major wild animals retire and sun setting over the beautiful horizon, game drives are great and truly rewarding. A number of evening game drives are ended with sun downers.

Balloon Safaris

Balloon safaris are a great way to explore the vast Mara ecosystem. These give a panoramic view of the open plains along with the major wildlife species in it. Balloon safaris are adventurous and also take around 2 to 3 hours of amazing scenic views. They can be arranged early morning or in the evening. Early morning balloon safaris often end with bush breakfast or champagne in the wilderness.

Nature walks

Guided nature walks are other incredible Masai Mara safari adventures. These are guided by the Maasai people who are believed to be the guardians of Masai Mara. On guided nature walks you get to see several wildlife including the smallest species of insects that you are unable to see on game drives and while on hot air ballon safaris.

On guided nature walks you get to interact with the knowledgeable local guides getting to know more about the conservation journey that the reserve has gone through.

Community Visit

Community visits to the Maasai people are great for culture and historical experiences while in Masai Mara. There are still several people with great African and Masai values and these take you through their ways of life. You get to interact and actively participate in some local activities.

Best time for Masai Mara Safari Adventures

The reserve can be visited anytime of the year irrespective of the season.  For best wildlife views, photography and wildlife safari events like the wildebeest migration, it is recommended to visit during the dry season. Masai Mara’s dry season starts from June to September and it also doubles as the peak tourist season. 

The Wet months of April, May, and November are still great times for a safari. Rainfall favors the growth of lush vegetation that the major grazers feed on. The vegetation is however used as cover by the predators that camouflage ready to take out their prey. The wet season months from November to May are ideal for birding Disocvery Journeys as it is when the migratory birds are in the area. Migratory birds come from as far as North Africa and Europe.

Accommodation Facilities in Masai Mara

There are several accommodation options in Masai Mara from under-canvas tented camps to safari lodges. Mara Serena Safari Lodge is the only lodge option in the Mara Triangle. This gets fully booked a couple of months in advance and it is advisable to book it ahead of time if you want to fully explore the Mara Triangle.

The different conservancies around Masai Mara also have several lodge options. Notable lodges in Masai Mara include Mahali Mzuri, Angama Mara Lodge, Sand River Masai Mara, Mara Bushtops, and Little Governors Camp Among others.

At Discovery Journeys we tailor-make safaris and can explore with you this great wildlife destination. We recommend at least a 4-day Masai Mara tour for those with limited time in the area. For more chances of wildlife viewing and encounters, you can however book an 8-day Kenya Safari to Masai Mara and other Kenya wildlife destinations.

Silverback In Mgahinga Gorilla Park. Mountain Gorilla Trekking Safari Adventures. Discovery Journeys
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Wildlife Adventures to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the best wildlife and gorilla trekking destinations. It is located in southwestern Uganda in the Kisoro district. The park covers A land area of 33.7 square kilometers making it the smallest national park in Uganda. Despite the small size, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an outstanding wildlife destination.

The parks’ name Mgahinga was derived from the word Gahinga that means piles of Volcanic stones cleared from farmlands. Mgahinga is part of the Virunga mountain ranges that lie along the Uganda, Rwanda and DRC Border. It has three of the 8 Virunga mountains that include mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura and Mount Sabyinyo.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park was first declared a game sanctuary in 1930 by the British colonial administration. It was eventually gazetted as a national park in 1991. The park is among the most underrated wildlife destinations in Uganda and East Africa in general.

Let us look at the key attractions and wildlife Discovery Journeys you can enjoy while visiting Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Wildlife

Mgahinga is home to over 76 mammals including the rare mountain gorillas. The Virunga mountain ranges and the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park plus the adjacent Sarambwe reserve are the only places on earth where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild. The total mountain gorilla population is currently estimated at only 1000 and the Virunga Mountains has about 600 of these. Of the three mountain gorilla parks in Virunga mountains, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers the most exclusive gorilla trekking experiences.

It has one habituated mountain gorilla family called Nyakagezi with 9 individual mountain gorillas. Nyakagezi is headed by the main male Silverback mountain gorilla called Mark. Being the only gorilla family the park has, the mountain gorilla trekking experience here is truly remarkable and exclusive.

Back in the day, the Nyakagezi family would cross over to Rwanda to the adjacent Virunga mountains along the border. It eventually stabilized and gorilla trekking safaris to the Nyakagezi family are guaranteed. You can book a 4-day Discovery Journeys tour to Mgahinga featuring gorilla trekking and other experiences.

Golden Monkeys

These are rare primates that are endemic to the Virunga Mountains and the conservation area including Mgahinga Gorilla Park. Just like their name suggests, golden monkeys are covered with golden fur and also live in families. They are vegetarian as well and mainly depend on bamboo shoots and many other edible plant vegetation.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is where gold meets silver. There you can trek to mountain gorilla silverbacks as well as the golden monkeys. Primate Discovery Journeys here are amazing and highly recommended.

Other notable primates in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park include forest elephants, giant forest hogs, forest buffaloes, and leopards though rarely seen among others. These can be seen while on nature walks hiking through the different trails in the park. They have so far not fully organized safari expeditions to explore these mammals but they are present in the park.

Birds

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to over 180 Bird species 14 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift Valley. This makes the park one of the best birding destinations in Uganda and birding journeys here are also recommended. Notable birds you can see here include the African Paradise flycatcher, Speckled mousebird, black kite, Kivu ground thrush, and Rwenzori Turaco among others.

Activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mountain gorilla trekking

Mountain gorilla trekking is the leading safari activity done in Mgahinga. Primate lovers hike the Virunga mountains seeking to meet mountain gorillas in their most preferred habitants. With the park having one gorilla family, only 8 tourists are allowed to track them every day. Just like in other gorilla trekking destinations, mountain gorilla trekking in Mgahinga starts with a briefing at the park headquarters at 7:00 am.  After here, you are guided to the forested park by the Uganda Wildlife Authority park rangers.

The hike takes about 1 to 4 hours or more to get to the mountain gorillas. This entirely depends on the movement of their movement of the previous place where they spent a night. Once you get to them, you will stay in their presence for an hour taking photos and getting to know more about them. You are later brought back to the park headquarters where you are awarded your certificates of participation.

Ensure to book your gorilla trekking permit in advance as they get fully booked quickly, especially in the peak tourist season.

Golden Monkey Trekking

Golden monkey trekking is another main primate activity done in Mgahinga Gorilla Park. There is a habituated community of golden monkeys that is open to tourism here. The trek starts with a briefing at the park headquarters. You are later guided to the light bamboo forests on an adventure hike lasting up to 2 or 3 hours.

On getting to the golden monkeys, you are allowed to stay in their presence for an hour learning more. Golden Monkeys are mobile if compared with mountain gorillas but you would still enjoy trekking to see them.

Birding Safaris

With the variety of birds Mgahinga Gorilla Park has, birding journeys are done where you get to see the various birds the park has. The park is ideal for Albertine endemics but overall birding is done here. There are several trails in the park that you follow enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.

Batwa Trail Experience

On this Batwa trail experience, you are guided by the Batwa people who take you back in time demonstrating their hunting and gathering skills. The Batwa initially lived in the forest and entirely depended on it for food, medicine, and general survival. This however was a threat to conservation as many would poach and kill some animals in the forest. It is on this basis that were relocated and now stay on the outskirts of the Park.

The Batwa have had to learn new ways of life outside the forest. On the Batwa trail experience though they can have a chance to enter the forest again. You also get an opportunity to hear from them about how they have managed to survive over the years.

It features a visit to the Garama caves that are sacred to the Batwa people. Here they perform folk songs and conclude the experience.

Mountain Hiking

All three volcanic mountains in Mgahinga Gorilla Park can be hiked. Mount Muhabura is the highest at 4,127 meters above sea level. It is followed by Mount Sabyinyo standing at 3,645 meters above sea level and Mount Gahinga at 3,474 meters above sea level. These offer unique mountain climbing experiences and each mountain can be hiked in a day.

The mountain vegetation vary depending on the mountain zones starting with the forests that slowly transcend into other vegetation types. Mount Muhabura has a crater at its summit and offers great scenic and wildlife views.

A hike to Sabyinyo is tough but very adventurous. The mountain is shared by the three countries and by hiking to the summit you are able to stand at the point where you are in the three countries at the same time.

Nature walks

There are guided nature walks in the park with the Sabyinyo Gorge walk is the most spectacular.  There you enjoy the most impressive scenic views of the wildlife in the park. Notable wildlife species you see here include birds, duikers, and some primates.

Where to Stay

There are several accommodation options where you can stay on a visit to Mgahinga Gorilla Park. Gahinga Lodge is the most luxurious with great views of the mountains. The lodge offers all-inclusive services and is ideal to base from when exploring Mgahinga Gorilla Park.

You can also stay at the different hotels and lodges in Kisoro town and then transfer to the park for the activities. They include Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge, Travelers’ Rest Kisoro, and Ichumbi Hotel among others.

Best time to Visit

Mgahinga Gorilla Park can be visited at any time of the year. The dry season from June to September and from December to February is the best times to explore the park. During the dry season, it is easy to navigate through the different trails in the park. Even mornings are often wet with dew, when the sun rises then it becomes a bit easy to move.

The wet months of March, April, May, and November are still great times to explore the park. At this time of the year, migratory birds are also present in the park making these months the best birding times.

Contact us for more information about wildlife adventures in Mgahinga National Park.